November 25, 2025

Several Democratic members of Congress have raised concerns about potential FBI investigations targeting them following their participation in a video critical of former President Donald Trump. The video, which was designed to remind military personnel of their duty to disobey unlawful orders, has sparked significant controversy, including fierce criticism from Trump himself.
In a joint statement released on Tuesday, Democratic Representatives Jason Crow of Colorado, Maggie Goodlander of New Hampshire, Chris Deluzio, and Chrissy Houlahan of Pennsylvania expressed their alarm over what they perceive as an abuse of power. “President Trump is using the FBI as a tool to intimidate and harass Members of Congress,” they stated. The lawmakers reported that the FBI had reached out to the House and Senate Sergeants at Arms to request interviews, a move they view as part of a broader strategy of intimidation.
Senator Elissa Slotkin of Michigan echoed these concerns on social media, accusing the former president of weaponizing federal agencies against his political adversaries. “The President directing the FBI to target us is exactly why we made this video in the first place," Slotkin wrote.
The video at the heart of the controversy features the lawmakers—all of whom have backgrounds in national security or the military—urging troops to uphold the Constitution even against potentially unlawful orders from superiors. This stance prompted Trump to accuse the participants of “SEDITIONS BEHAVIOR AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL” in a widely noted social media post. Additionally, Trump shared another user's post that called for the hanging of traitors, which the White House later clarified was not meant as a direct threat against the lawmakers.
Adding to the tension, the Pentagon on Monday announced an investigation into one of the video's participants, Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona. The inquiry pertains to “serious allegations of misconduct,” and could potentially lead to Kelly being recalled to active duty to face charges in a military court.
Responses from the FBI and the offices of the Senate and House Sergeants at Arms have not been forthcoming, as they have yet to comment on the situation.
This developing story continues to underscore the deep political divisions and the ongoing debate over the military's role in politics and governance.